Visitors are always shocked at how much things cost here, but think about it. Hawaii is among the most isolated set of islands in the world. It's some 2,500 miles to the nearest continent and nearly everything is shipped in; and if it's not shipped, then it's flown at an even greater cost.
Frommer's lists exact prices in the local currency. However, rates fluctuate, so before departing consult a currency exchange website such as www.oanda.com/convert/classic to check up-to-the-minute rates.
Hotel rooms on Kauai are second in price to New York City. If you would like to stay on the beach, you are looking at rack rates in the $300-$350 and up range (a deal on the Internet can put you in around $250). Hotels off the beach are still expensive; expect to pay $159 to $225-plus per day. Then factor in tax (13.9%), plus (very expensive) parking of $18 to $25 a night.
It's always advisable to bring money in a variety of forms on a vacation, a mix of cash, credit cards, and traveler's checks. You should also exchange enough petty cash to cover airport incidentals, tipping, and transportation to your hotel before you leave home, or withdraw money upon arrival at an airport ATM.
Beware of hidden credit card fees while traveling. Check with your credit or debit card issuer to see what fees, if any, will be charged for overseas transactions. Recent reform legislation in the U.S., for example, has curbed some exploitative lending practices. But many banks have responded by increasing fees in other areas, including fees for customers who use credit and debit cards while out of the country -- even if those charges were made in U.S. dollars. Fees can amount to 3% or more of the purchase price. Check with your bank before departing to avoid any surprise charges on your statement.
For help with currency conversions, tip calculations, and more, download Frommer's convenient Travel Tools app for your mobile device. Go to www.frommers.com/go/mobile and click on the Travel Tools icon.
What Things Cost in Kauai US$
Hamburger $6.00
Movie ticket (adult) $9.00
Movie ticket (child) $5.50
Entry to Kauai Museum (adult) $10.00
Entry to Kauai Museum (child) $2.00
Fee Kauai Plantation Railway (adult) $18.00
Fee Kauai Plantation Railway (child) $14.00
Admission and Tour Allerton Garden (adult) $45.00
Admission and Tour Allerton Garden (child) $20.00
20-ounce soft drink at drug or convenience store $2.50
16-ounce apple juice $3.50
Cup of coffee $3.00
Helicopter ride $197
Moderate 3-course dinner without alcohol $50
Moderately priced hotel $150-$225
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
